Eleanor Roosevelt (1884-1962) was an influential American diplomat, humanitarian, and the longest-serving First Lady of the United States, serving from 1933 to 1945 during the presidency of her husband, Franklin D. Roosevelt. Beyond her role as First Lady, Eleanor was a champion of social justice, civil rights, and women’s rights. She played a pivotal role in shaping the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and continued her advocacy for human rights after her husband’s presidency. Eleanor Roosevelt is widely regarded as one of the most prominent and impactful women in American history.
Eleanor’s childhood was marked by tragedy and challenges. Both of her parents, Elliott and Anna Hall Roosevelt, died while she was young. Orphaned at the age of ten, Eleanor moved in with her maternal grandmother, Mary Ludlow Hall. Despite the difficulties she faced, Eleanor displayed resilience and determination. Her education took place primarily in private schools in England and later at a finishing school in Italy.
In 1905, Eleanor married her distant cousin Franklin D. Roosevelt, a rising political figure. The marriage brought her into the heart of American politics, but it was not without its struggles. Franklin’s political career demanded significant time and attention, and Eleanor faced personal hardships, including the discovery of her husband’s extramarital affair. Despite these challenges, Eleanor remained committed to her marriage and focused on raising their five children.
Eleanor’s entry into public life accelerated when Franklin was stricken with polio in 1921. With her husband’s health deteriorating, Eleanor assumed a more active role in political affairs. She became Franklin’s eyes and ears, traveling extensively and reporting back on the state of the nation. Her deep involvement in social issues and politics laid the foundation for her later achievements as a public figure.
As the First Lady from 1933 to 1945, during Franklin’s unprecedented four terms as president, Eleanor redefined the role traditionally associated with the president’s wife. Rather than confining herself to ceremonial duties, she became a passionate advocate for social justice and equality. Her regular newspaper column, “My Day,” provided a platform for her thoughts on a wide range of issues, from civil rights to labor concerns, reaching a broad audience and cementing her as a prominent voice in American public discourse.
Eleanor’s commitment to social justice extended to her efforts on behalf of civil rights. At a time when racial segregation was prevalent in the United States, she became a vocal supporter of the African American community. She resigned from the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) when they barred African American singer Marian Anderson from performing at Constitution Hall. Eleanor played a crucial role in arranging an alternative venue for Anderson’s historic concert on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial.
During World War II, Eleanor’s focus shifted to international affairs. She became a delegate to the United Nations and played a pivotal role in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Her advocacy for human rights on the global stage marked a significant departure from traditional First Lady roles and solidified her as a key player in international diplomacy.
After Franklin’s death in 1945, Eleanor continued to be a prominent figure in American public life. President Harry S. Truman appointed her as a delegate to the United Nations General Assembly, where she served from 1945 to 1952. Her work on the Human Rights Commission was instrumental in the development and adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.
In 1961, President John F. Kennedy appointed Eleanor as the first chair of the Presidential Commission on the Status of Women. The commission’s findings laid the groundwork for the feminist movement, advocating for equal opportunities and rights for women in the workplace and beyond. Eleanor’s commitment to gender equality was a continuation of her broader efforts toward justice and fairness.
Eleanor’s influence on American society extended beyond her public roles. Her writings, including columns, articles, and books, provided insights into her views on social and political issues. “Tomorrow is Now,” published in 1963, encapsulates her philosophy and reflections on various aspects of society. Her autobiography, “This I Remember,” published in 1949, offers a personal account of her life, experiences, and the challenges she faced.
Eleanor Roosevelt’s impact on the civil rights movement, human rights advocacy, and her role as a trailblazing First Lady make her a revered figure in American history. Her ability to transcend societal expectations for women of her era and champion causes that were often controversial demonstrated her courage and resilience. Eleanor once remarked, “You must do the things you think you cannot do,” encapsulating her lifelong commitment to pushing boundaries and striving for a more just and equitable world.
Eleanor Roosevelt passed away on November 7, 1962, but her legacy endures. The Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site, located at Val-Kill in Hyde Park, New York, preserves her home and commemorates her life and achievements. The Eleanor Roosevelt Papers Project, based at The George Washington University, continues to research and publish her writings, ensuring that future generations have access to her wisdom and insights.
